Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan issues worrying health update for defender Marcus Adams

Brisbane manager Chris Fagan has conceded Marcus Adams’ AFL career is all but over and admitted he would be uncomfortable overseeing the defender’s unlikely comeback.

Adams’ future as a player is in serious doubt after he was placed on the inactive Lions list in January due to persistent concussions.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: “Gamechanger” technology helping to revolutionize the fight against concussion.

Analysis, local football and biggest moments, Seven and 7plus are home to football shows for every fan. Stream them all for free on 7plus >>

They have stayed seven months since the 29-year-old was last on the field on lap 21 of last season.

“He has good days and not-so-good days, so probably not much has changed at this point,” Fagan told SEN’s Crunch Time on Saturday.

“I’ll be amazed if he plays this year and to be fair I’ll be amazed if he plays again.

“My main concern is that he does it right and can live a really good and fulfilling life and not have to burden himself with it for a long time.”

Former Lions defensemen Justin Clarke, Jack Frost and Matt Maguire have all retired in the past decade due to the lingering effects of a concussion.

Fears about Adams’ future surface as the AFL faces multiple class action lawsuits from ex-players seeking compensation over health issues related to an on-field concussion.

“[Adams]played football really bravely and was one of those guys who always came back with the flight (of the ball) in the air,” Fagan said.

“I just hope he develops well and is fit and healthy for normal, everyday duties.

“If he plays football again, well that’s an absolute bonus.

“But probably as a coach I would be quite nervous to get him back on the ground after what he’s been through.”

Adams was substituted off with a rib injury in his last appearance in a win over Carlton last August.

In the days that followed, Adams developed concussion symptoms that have persisted ever since.

The concussion followed a series of injury setbacks that have ruthlessly ravaged the former Western Bulldogs defenseman’s career.

Adams was limited to 27 games in three seasons with the Bulldogs and then missed all but one game of the 2020 season with a foot injury.

He has played a total of 73 games over seven seasons.